La Rochelle, Île de Ré and its wild beaches: a van road trip between land and sea

Discover an authentic route between the vibrant city of La Rochelle and the preserved landscapes of Île de Ré, where wild beaches and charming villages await.

By the Le Campeur editorial team · 13 September 2026

Set off on an unforgettable road trip along the Atlantic coast, where the sea air brushes your face and every stop is an invitation to wonder. From the cobbled streets of La Rochelle to the tides of Île de Ré and the vastness of its wild beaches, your van becomes the perfect companion for exploring these Charente treasures. Ready to hit the road? Here are the must-see spots you won’t want to miss.

Vieux Port de La Rochelle

The beating heart of the city, the Old Port charms visitors with its two iconic towers, Saint-Nicolas and la Chaîne, standing watch over the anchored boats. Stroll along the quays, enjoy an ice cream or oysters on the terrace, and soak up the maritime atmosphere.

Where to sleep nearby

La ferme du Grand Chemin Campsite ★ 4.9 Campsite rated 4.9/5 with 5-6 spacious pitches, electricity included. 5 km from the centre, bike access via a dedicated path. › Aire automatisée de Port-Neuf Motorhome area ★ 4 Wooded area with 116 pitches, full services (water, electricity, Wi-Fi). 31-minute walk to the Old Port. › Quiet parking near harbour office L'Houmeau Parking ★ 4.3 Free seaside parking, very quiet out of season. 6 km from the centre, ocean views. › Parking free Sacred Heart church La Rochelle Parking ★ 4.3 Free shaded parking in front of a church, very quiet. 18-minute walk to the Old Port. › Parking street institute La Rochelle Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking with no size restrictions, rare in town. 12-minute walk to the historic centre. ›

Aquarium La Rochelle

Dive into a fascinating underwater world with over 12,000 marine creatures, from jellyfish to sharks. An immersive experience perfect for the whole family, even on rainy days.

Where to sleep nearby

La ferme du Grand Chemin Campsite ★ 4.9 5-6 spacious pitches with electricity, 5 km from La Rochelle. Rated 4.9, 20-minute bike ride via a path. › Aire automatisée de Port-Neuf Motorhome area ★ 4 116 wooded pitches, water/electricity/waste disposal included. €15/night, 34-minute walk to the centre. › Parking ideal for visiting La Rochelle Parking ★ 4.4 Free shaded parking at a school, 25-minute walk to the centre. Quiet, ideal for one night. › Quiet parking near the beach Aytré Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking 200 m from the beach, cycle paths to La Rochelle. 26-minute walk, flat terrain. › L'huitrière du sud-ouest Campsite ★ 4.7 Private parking at an oyster farmer’s, by the marsh. Quiet, 6 km from La Rochelle, easy beach access. ›

Phare des Baleines

At the northern tip of Île de Ré, this lighthouse offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the ocean and coastline. Climb its 250 steps for a breathtaking sunset.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping les Baleines Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star eco campsite in a natural setting, direct beach access. 4.6/5 (150 reviews), 7-minute walk. › Quiet parking facing the sea Ars-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.4 Parking by the sea, max 6 spaces, very quiet. Free, 6-minute drive (5 km). › Camping Huttopia Ars-en-Ré Campsite ★ 4.5 Charming forest campsite, 50 m from the beach. 4.5/5 (94 reviews), 5-minute drive. › Beach parking Saint-Clément-des-Baleines Parking ★ 4.2 Parking by the beach, extremely quiet out of season. Free, 22-minute walk. › Camping le Cormoran Campsite ★ 4.4 Luxury 5-star campsite, heated pool and spa. 4.4/5 (14 reviews), 5-minute drive. ›

Plage de la Conche des Baleines

One of the most beautiful wild beaches on Île de Ré, with fine sand and preserved dunes. Ideal for a walk or bike ride, far from the crowds.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping les Baleines Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star campsite in a natural setting, direct beach access. 4.6/5 (150 reviews), 7-minute walk. › Camping Huttopia Ars-en-Ré Campsite ★ 4.5 Charming forest campsite in a pine forest, beach 50 m away. 4.5/5 (94 reviews), 4 km drive. › Beach parking Saint-Clément-des-Baleines Parking ★ 4.2 Free parking by the beach, 30 m away, very quiet. 4.2/5 (16 reviews), 22-minute walk. › Quiet parking facing the sea Ars-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.4 Parking by the sea, max 6 spaces, ocean views. 4.4/5 (34 reviews), 5 km drive. › Camping le Cormoran Campsite ★ 4.4 Luxury 5-star campsite, heated pool, spa. 4.4/5 (14 reviews), 4 km drive. ›

Saint-Martin-de-Ré

This village, listed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages, combines historic charm with a lively port atmosphere. Its ramparts, cobbled streets and colourful market make it a must-visit stop.

Where to sleep nearby

2 Rue des Marais, La Flotte Parking ★ 4.6 Free parking by the ocean, stunning views of La Flotte beach. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Camping Municipal LE REMONDEAU Campsite ★ 4.5 Municipal campsite 200 m from the beach, modern facilities. 6-minute drive (5 km). › Donkey area parking La Couarde-sur-Mer Parking ★ 4.2 Secluded and quiet spot by the dunes, near a naturist beach. 5-minute drive (4 km). › Motorhome area with no height limit Le Bois-Plage-en-Ré Motorhome area ★ 4.5 Free area 50 m from toilets, by the beach. 45-minute walk. › Camping Saint Martin de Ré Campsite ★ 4.1 2-star shaded campsite, 10 minutes from the port and 1 km from the beach. 5-minute walk. ›

Réserve naturelle nationale de Lilleau des Niges

A haven of peace for nature lovers, where migratory birds and marshland landscapes coexist. Perfect for a rejuvenating outdoor break.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Bois Henri IV Campsite ★ 4.6 Traditional wooded campsite 200 m from the beach, shaded pitches. Rated 4.7, 5-minute drive. › Loix marsh parking La Patache Parking ★ 4.6 Wild parking in nature, by the marsh and 20 m from the sea. Very quiet, rated 4.7, 45-minute walk. › Camping les Baleines Campsite ★ 4.6 4-star eco-label campsite in a natural setting, direct beach access. Rated 4.6, 5-minute drive. › Gated parking near the beach Les Portes-en-Ré Parking ★ 4.4 Free parking by the beach, flat and quiet. Height barrier 2.10 m, 35-minute walk. › Camping Huttopia Ars-en-Ré Campsite ★ 4.5 Charming forest campsite, 50 m from the beach for sunsets. Rated 4.5, 41-minute walk. ›

See all spots on the map